Stories of the ordinary, the extraordinary, the classic,
the unexpected and the hidden gems by a long time resident who shares his love of New York City.

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Friday, November 17, 2006

Urban Oasis

In the heart of one of the busiest areas in Manhattan, surrounded by buildings, traffic and commerce, lies the exquisite Jefferson Market Garden. This is literally an urban oasis, bounded on 4 sides by 10th St., Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave.), Greenwich Ave. and Christopher St. The .36 acre plot of land abuts the Jefferson Market library and was the former site of a prison (Women's House of Detention), demolished in 1974 (see my posting from Nov. 14th). In 1975, the plot was transformed into a garden, designed by landscape architect Pamela Berdan in the spirit of Frederick Law Olmstead (co-designer of Central and Prospect Parks). A community garden, it is sustained by volunteer efforts and support of residents and visitors. Originally only a viewing garden, it is now open to the public.There is a brick pathway circling the garden, with a variety of plantings around the perimeter and a green expanse with trees in the center. There are annuals, perennials. seasonal flowering plants, an area with ferns, a rose garden, a woodland garden, a greenhouse and a pond with koi and goldfish. Various events, activities, educational programs for children and concerts are held in the garden. Weddings are also hosted there. For more on all aspects of the garden, click here to go to their website ...

4 comments:

I'm assuming these photos are from the summer? I've heard you've had warm weather, but have most of the leaves dropped? This looks like a great place to stop and rest. Reminds me of Paris where there are little parks and squares that pop up just when you need them.

Hi Brian - I am going to be visiting NYC for two weeks at Christmas - is it likely that the parks will be looking this good or will they be undersnow? Any suggestions on parks or gardens to visit are welcome.

Snow is not very typical in NYC and when we have some, it usually melts quickly. The smaller parks are not that interesting off season. I would recommend Central Park. It's great year round. Also the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is excellent. They have indoor climates as well as outdoor gardens.Brian